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Packing for vacation can get a little overwhelming! Can I get an AMEN!!?? Especially if you have little ones that can’t really help you pack. Well I guess they could! So far on TJ’s list are action figures and his tablet! There are so many things to remember and bring! Packing doesn’t have to be overwhelming or stressful! Here is how I do it! Remember packing to fly versus packing for a road trip can be very different!
- Make a list! I know I always say this, but if everything is out of your brain and on paper, you will function better and remember more. I promise! You don’t have to make a list of every single thing to pack but at least make a list of basics-beach, sleep, out to eat, etc. I like more detailed lists, but this will at least get you pointed in the right direction!
- Start packing a few days in advance. I do laundry two days out and pack as much as I can as I fold those loads. That way I may have one small load left the day before travel and can then pack the last minute stuff.
- Use gallon storage bags and pack them as well. I pack almost all of my toiletries in storage bags, especially if we fly. They keep exploding shampoo and conditioner off of my clothes! I also use them to batch things. Kitchen linens in one, bug spray and sunscreen in another, baby monitor and sound machine, you get the picture. It’s also helpful to have extra for wet swimsuits or to store leftovers from the huge dinner the night before!
- Pack a whole child’s outfit together in a storage bag. The whole thing…..socks, undies, shorts, top, hair bow, accessories. This way you know everything for that outfit is packed and it is nicely organized for your trip.
- Use travel cubes. This is new for me. I kept seeing people talk about how amazing they were and didn’t understand. Until I got some. You can batch things together such as all of your t-shirts, all of your socks, all of your swimsuits, etc. And in some amazing way, it saves space in your suitcase! I know. I didn’t get it either, until I saw it for myself!
- If you are driving, use totes. We usually have a tote for all of the beach stuff and then a tote for the linens if needed, food, and anything that doesn’t fit in the suitcase.
- Find out if your accommodations have laundry. If you don’t mind to do a load or 2 on vacation, you can pack a whole lot less! That is always a win for me!
- Pack your travel or carry on bags. Make sure what you pack is airplane compliant if you are flying and make sure you and your family stay occupied for your trip!
So this is how I organize my packing and can get it done pretty quickly with minimal stress. It does take a little planning but as Edna on the Incredible s says, “Luck favors the prepared!.” Happy Packing!
For more from my travel tip series here is a blog on the surprise road trip bag: https://www.shadybranchfarm.com/surprise-road-trip-bag/. Here is a blog on prepping for vacation: https://www.shadybranchfarm.com/a-moms-guide-to-prepping-for-vacation/
